Frequently Asked Questions

I am thinking of buying a new computer. What are the most important things to consider?

Contrary to popular belief, the size of the hard drive is not what matters so much as the processor, bus speed, and amount of memory. Hard drives, no matter how large, will not typically aid the computer in thinking ability. They are mostly just storage places. Suppose you want to increase the speed of your automobile. You would increase the engine size, and possibly increase the amount of fuel/air sent to the engine. You would not get a bus to drive faster. Bigger storage space does not equal higher performance.

The speed of the processor and its multi-tasking ability can dramatically increase its thinking speed. The bus speed refers to the rate at which the motherboard can transfer data. In a nutshell the amount of memory helps the computer process all of the commands given to it more immediately.

What should I keep in mind while making a decision?

Keep in mind that repairs and replacements can be costly. If there is an extended warranty option, strongly consider it. Often, the cost of an extended warranty will closely resemble the cost of the parts and labor to replace a motherboard or hard drive only once.

Who should I choose for Internet?

The fastest, least expensive, and safest way is currently HSI (High Speed Internet) offered at Back To Basics Computer Services. In some towns cable modems are faster, but since they are on a shared network, they are less safe – it is possible for someone to hack into a computer on a cable modem if they too have a cable modem.

Once you have gone to high speed (Cable, DSL, or High Speed Wireless), it’s frustrating to use a dial up connection (like with AOL, Earthlink, PeoplePC, etc.) Keep in mind that although we offer a dial-up connection, we recommend HSI, especially because your phone line is available for use while you’re surfing the internet. 

PC Danny’s Top Three

#1: spyware

#2: your anti-virus software is hogging up resources

#3: you need more memory (SDRAM, DDR, DDR2, DDR3)

I am having trouble trying to find some files I thought were stored on my PC. How can I find them?

In Windows XP, click on Start and choose Search. Then fill in the name of the file you’re looking for. Here you can narrow down which folders you want the computer to look in. You can even specify the dates of creation, and the type of file, i.e. a picture or document. In all Windows operating systems, including XP, you can hold down the Windows key and type “F” for “Find.” The Windows key is located on the left side of the keyboard between the Ctrl and Alt keys.  Use the exact same shortcut to bring up the Search Window in Windows Vista and Windows 7.

I have more than one computer in my home/business. Can they be joined together?

Yes, we will get just about all computers, printers, cameras, and other network devices to "talk" with each other.

I would like to put all of my pictures on a CD. How can I do this?

The easiest way is to use a CD/DVD Burning Program such as Nero or Roxio with a CD-R, CD-R/W, DVD-R, DVD-R/W in a CD or DVD burner. However, XP comes with the ability to burn files for most CD Burners. By the way CD/RW means it is rewritable.  CD-R is a one shot deal – once you burn files to it, they are there forever or until you scratch your CD so badly the drive can’t read it anymore – it cannot be erased and written over, as in a rewritable CD or DVD.

I run a small business, and we use our computers to store information. What security software should I use?

I have tried them all. The one which works best from my experience is AVG. It has a small footprint (it does not use most of the resources of the computer). Most of the others can reduce your PC speed to a crawl. Since we found AVG, Back To Basics Computers Services recommends AVG, and today we have earned the title GOLD.

I am thinking of starting a small business. What kind of computer, and software should I get?

It depends on many factors including the size and type of small business.  In a small business of 10 or more persons where access needs to be managed and restricted closely, domains should be implemented in a server environment, and server software is required. With many small businesses, a “file server,” that is, a computer that stores all the data of the business, can be used in a system of networked computers.

I would like some training to help me use my computer better. Where should I go?

 You can try Mohave Community College. They usually offer a structured computer course if enough people sign up.  You can also use Back To Basics Computer Services, LLC for a less structured, more individualized experience.  We have found that learning takes place when you are relaxed and having fun.  This is how we fulfill so many of your your training needs. Call (928) 854-6972 (MyPC) for more details.